Blog 7 "School Branding"

Today I read an interesting article by Lisa Nielsen the Innovative Educator.

Titled: "5 Social Media Platforms and Strategies to Develop your School's Brand"

I found it interesting to learn that today's parents and students tend to use social media more. They feel that user generated content (UGC) on social media is more reliable than other sites. Social Media is the best way to communicate a school's brand. this means, that they are checking these sites and believing what they are reading. Therefor, school's can use that advantage to better reach their community and inform them on important or exciting things happening at the school.

One thing that really stood out to me was what superintendent Joe Sanfelippo (a host on the BAM Radio show) advises to educators, "Never give up the opportunity to say something great about your school." This stood out because I think it is really important to highlight the students within the school. Schools should show their communities the creativity and exciting things that their students are doing. Branding creates a unique identity for the school. It will draw attention to prospective students within the area as well. This can be super beneficial to the school.

The article discussed some social media tools for schools to use.

Facebook-  Schools can use facebook to reach their students, parents, and surrounding communities. More parents tend to use it. It can be used to create a positive online profile. Events, Photos, Videos, and more can be shared on the site. This way the followers can keep up to date on what's happening within the school.

Instagram-  Some parents may not read English, therefore a picture can mean 1000 words them. It also keeps alumni involved and included in #tbt (throw back thursdays)

Twitter-  Important updates and information can be relayed quickly using twitter. You can also share class experiences.

Livestream-  This enables users to share whats happening at the school with the world.

Online Learning Community-  This allows teachers to collaborate and share work and ideas with their community.

http://theinnovativeeducator.blogspot.com/2016/02/develop-your-schools-brand-with-these-5.html#more